Your next stay-cation destination awaits.
By Lauren Jones, Photos courtesy of the 7A Ranch and & Resort
Less than an hour’s drive from Austin lies an often-overlooked paradise, Wimberley, Texas. Established in 1848, this quaint town has maintained its humble roots, and boasts locally owned bakeries, antique shops and family-friendly activities. Escape Austin traffic and hop in the car for a tranquil night away. Here’s a suggested agenda for your 24 hours in Wimberley, Texas.
3:30 p.m.
With its rolling turquoise waters, grassy hillsides and Southern-style porch swings, the 7A Ranch & Resort is nothing if not charming. Located on the Blanco River, this Hill Country retreat is ideal for family vacations or a romantic holiday. Arrive just in time for check-in and enjoy the beautiful surroundings before heading to your cabin. The newly renovated riverside cabins and lodges have a modern and crisp aesthetic, thanks to designer Claire Zinnecker. In the two-story cantina lofts, which sleep 12, woven baskets create an innovative gallery wall, navy tile lines the master bath and bright white linens drape each bed. The smaller classic cabins share the same design scheme, with whites, reds, blues and earth tones throughout. 7A is pet-friendly as well, so your dog can enjoy all the resort has to offer.
5 p.m.
After unpacking your bags in your cabin, it’s time to get out and enjoy the scenery before the sun sets. Head to 7A’s Pioneer Town to rent a canoe and take a relaxing trip down the Blanco River, or go hiking at the nearby Blue Hole Regional Park, a 126-acre park with miles of trails. If you’d rather stay closer to the resort, go for a swim in 7A’s recently built pool or check out Wimberley’s antique shops. Local favorites include Aunt Jenny’s Attic, Jean’s Antique Malland Star Antique Fine Vintage.
8 p.m.
After an afternoon out, it’s time to choose a restaurant for dinner. During the past few years, Wimberley’s restaurant offerings have expanded, and you’ll be able to find everything from classic Texas barbecue to unique Hill Country fare. Both The Leaning Pear and Linda’s Fine Foods are great options for dinner. At The Leaning Pear, order the farmers market pizza and sip on a glass of red wine while enjoying the restaurant’s modern décor. Linda’s Fine Foods is a casual option for both lunch and dinner, and has live music on the weekends. Order the tarragon chicken or Southwest meatloaf for a real taste of Wimberley.
10 p.m.
Head back to 7A for a relaxing night in. Grab a blanket from your cabin, s’mores ingredients and take to the edge of the river for stargazing. 7A experiences less light pollution than Austin, making stargazing a treat. Sit back, breathe in the fresh air and take in the night sky.
9 a.m.
When breakfast rolls around, stop by Sugar Shack Bakery for cinnamon rolls, kolaches and fruit-filled danishes. The bakery even has gluten-free options, including sweet almond horns and lemon tartlets. Take your breakfast back to 7A as check-out time nears.
11 am.
Stroll through 7A’s Pioneer Town one last time before leaving Wimberley. Stop by the 1880s-inspired ice-cream parlor for a scoop of nostalgia. Treat yourself and raise a cone to the last few hours of your well-deserved vacation.
